The two appeared together for the first time as the Republican presidential ticket on Saturday morning in Virginia. They faced supporters while standing on the USS Wisconsin, a retired World War II battleship.

Romney says Ryan is a man of what he calls “great steadiness” and “unquestioned integrity.” The former Massachusetts governor says Ryan is a “shining exception” in a political world of pettiness.

Romney says that Democrats may disagree with Ryan's policies, but he doesn't know anyone who doesn't respect his character and judgment.

Romney and Ryan are kicking off a four-day bus tour that will take them to as many states. At 42, Ryan is a generation younger than the 65-year-old Romney.